Aug. 15, 2013 UBJ

AUGUST 15, 2014

THE MONEY TREE How important are the annual millions in state and local tax incentives in luring businesses to the Upstate?

UBJ UP FRONT

Voices carry Speaking out is not about you, it’s about the message

By Ryan Johnston | UBJ Publisher rjohnston@communityjournals.com

Last week I spent two and a half days out of my comfort zone. I was attending The Buckley School of Public Speaking’s Executive Seminar.

Greenville Tech Foundation President Bob Howard was responsible for encouraging me to tough it out.

Thanks, Bob. From the very first exercise, the 11 class participants were thrown into uncomfortable and difficult speaking situations.

Those of you who know me might find it hard to believe that I do not like public speaking. I am not a man of few words and am very comfortable speaking my mind, but I hate the pressure of presenting to an audience.

Why do I hate it? Because any time you are putting yourself out there on display you can fail, and failure is embarrassing. But like anything, the

more you fail, the more you improve.

Public speaking, like a solid golf swing, takes practice. It felt a lot like my last golf lesson. (Do this, not that, head up, feet firm, elbows here, watch your tone range, etc.)

I don’t know many people who like doing things they are not good at. I do, however, know many people who are passionate about Upstate causes.

I would encourage you to consider this program – but if not this program, jump at the next chance to address an audience. Throw yourself in the ring, naked, exposed.

My main takeaway from the program was that it’s not about you, it’s about the message, and the sooner you realize that the sooner your will master the delivery.

Connecting and delivering the message is the goal. You are just the channel.

Stay Stayininthe theknow knowononTwitter.

Twitter.

Follow us today: @UpstateBiz Follow us today: @UpstateBiz

Upstate Business Journal Upstate Business Journal

Participants in The Buckley School of Public Speaking’s Executive Seminar. Front row, from left: Brice Hipp, Julie Brown, Jeff Carlson, Ryan Johnston. Back row, from left: Michael Scherer, Karin Agness, Jennifer Sutton, Ashley Bickerstaff, Marion Crawford, Dana McConnell​.

August 15, 2014

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

3

Volume 3, Issue 33

August 15, 2014

Top-of-mind and in the mix this week

WORTH REPEATING “My wife is checking up on flood insurance today.”

Page 6

“With the state’s property tax in mind, it is essential for us to compensate in other areas.”

Page 16

Page 20

MONEY SHOT: Chris Stover with the City of Greenville Building and Codes Department looks over the ruins of Pete’s on Stone Avenue.

Read more on page 6.

CORRECTION: In an article in the July 11 issue of the Upstate Business Journal, “Upstate Powerhouse,” markets listed for the GE gas turbine plant should have included both the 50 and 60 Hz markets – the E, F, and HA class can be for either the 50 Hz or the 60 Hz. In addition, the test stand facility fully tests turbines, but does not generate power. The typical rotor life is at least 20 years, approximately 160,000 hours. We regret the errors.

4

TBA Look for Beija-Flor Jeans to once again have a shop on Main Street in downtown Greenville.

The store reportedly will open by Sept. 1 between Pomegranate and Subway across from Falls Park.

Co-owner Kathy Moça says there’s “real energy downtown” that she’s looking forward to rejoining…

Word is Capri’s Italian Restaurant is going in at the corner of Main and Trade streets in Fountain Inn…

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

August 15, 2014

VERBATIM

On an Outdoors Top Town…

“You never actually have to leave town to experience some of the area’s best outdoors opportunities.”

Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine, naming Greenville as a contender for “Top Town 2014.” Vote at blueridgeoutdoors. com/top-towns-2014.

Photo by Greg Beckner/Staff

“If he’s in town, he’s at his desk.”

UBJ TECH BYTES

3D Systems acquires Symbionix and Laser Reproductions SHERRY JACKSON | STAFF

FAST FACTS ON 3D SYSTEMS

3D Systems of Rock Hill, one of

• 3DS invented 3-D printing with its stereolithography (SLA) printer and was the first to commercialize it in 1989.

sjackson@communityjournals.com the top three providers in the world of 3-D printing solutions, recently announced its acquisition of two companies, Simbionix and Laser Reproductions, to further expand its product line and capabilities.

On August 6, 3D Systems announced it had acquired Laser Reproductions, a provider of advanced manufacturing product development and engineering services, to further extend its Quickparts operations, an on-demand manufacturing services platform. The company expects the acquisition to drive accelerated adoption of 3D Systems’ comprehensive design-to-manufacturing solutions in the United States.

Details of the transaction were not disclosed.

Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Laser Reproductions brings to 3D Systems three decades of advanced manufacturing service bureau experience with substantial production capabilities that are rooted in regional infrastructure and supported by long-term, key relationships with regional blue chip companies.

“Laser Reproductions has a wealth of experience and bench strength that is highly complementary to our Quickparts offering,” said Ziad Abou, vice president and general manager of Quickparts for 3DS. “This acquisition further enhances our on-demand, quick-turn cloud manufacturing services and drives accelerated adoption of our solutions through meaningful new customer relationships. We are delighted to add such powerful regional capabilities to our growing North American footprint.”

3D Systems will retain the entire Laser Reproductions team under the continued leadership of Laser Reproductions president Paul Bordner, and

• 3DS invented selective laser sintering (SLS) printing and was the first to commercialize it in 1992.

• 3DS invented the color-jet-printing (CJP) class of 3-D printers and was the first to commercialize 3-D powder-based systems in 1994.

• 3DS invented multi-jet-printing (MJP) printers and was the first to commercialize it in 1996.

• 3DS pioneered virtual surgical planning (VSP) and 3-D printed medical modeling and devices.

More information on the company is available at 3DSystems.com. plans to immediately integrate it into its expanding Quickparts operations.

3D Systems also recently acquired Simbionix, a Cleveland, Ohio, company with a research and development center in Israel, for $120 million in cash, at the end of July. Simbionix is a global leader in 3-D virtual reality surgical simulation and training with more than 60 interventional procedures across eight specialties through 16 simulation platforms – a complementary building block that expands 3DS’ breadth and reach within the open-ended 3-D health care field.

“Simbionix is a perfect match for our health care business, and its powerful technology, products, channels and domain expertise expands our 3-D health care capabilities from the training room to the operating room, and extends our first mover advantage in this fast-growing vertical,” said Avi Reichental, president and CEO of 3D Systems.

The company plans to operate Simbionix under the continued leadership of Gary Zamler, CEO of Simbionix.

The Simbionix transaction is expected to be completed by the end of August.

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5

UBJ DISASTER

Washed away APRIL A. MORRIS | STAFF

amorris@communityjournals.com The damage to Stone Avenue businesses devastated by last weekend’s flash flood will take weeks to repair – and recover from, business owners say.

The torrential storm that swept through parts of Greenville County Saturday night dumped 5 to 6 inches of rain downtown, causing Richland Creek and the Reedy River to rise. The Reedy surpassed flood stage – which is 9 feet – in just hours. Several businesses along East Stone Avenue were damaged, including Crescent Cleaners, Park Avenue Pub and Iron Horse Lawyers.

Spero’s Original Pete’s Too was

flooded and a natural gas leak triggered an explosion, blowing the walk-in freezer off the back of the building.

Alan Johnson of Crescent Cleaners on East Stone Avenue said the business experienced flooding a decade ago and had taken precautions, installing alarms and alert systems. However, in the 20 minutes it took for owner Fred Sutton to receive the alarm and get to the business, there was little to salvage.

According to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), East Stone Avenue is in a high-risk area (Special Flood Hazard Area). This designation requires business owners and homeowners with mortgages through federally regulated or insured lenders to have

Photo by Greg Beckner

For several Stone Avenue businesses, recovering from last weekend’s flooding may take a long time

The inside of Pete’s on Stone Avenue after the flood and explosion.

flood insurance, according to NFIP. Johnson said that the business had taken precautions, but the water rose too quickly as they were responding to the alarm. The compressor and boiler

were tossed around and waterlogged.

He estimates the damage at more than $100,000, approximately $14,000 of which will be covered by insurance. He said the staff will work together to plan

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UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

August 15, 2014

8/6/14 2:22 PM

UBJ DISASTER

Photo by April A. Morris

for future floods, but cycle were under water waterproofing the and his 3,000-pound trailer floated about more than 70-year-old 200 feet down the building that houses the business will be street. Fisher, who rents difficult. the space, thought the As Sutton worked to owner had flood insurclean up in the baseance, but turns out he ment, Johnson said did not. The auto and the cleaners were motorcycle are covered, taking in clothing for but the building condrop off, but estimated tents aren’t, he said. the business would be The biggest loss for closed for at least five him, he said, were client days while they waited files that were either for equipment parts. “washed away or waterKirk Fisher, owner of Tim Rosemond of Signature Bar logged.” He expects the Iron Horse Motorcycle and Lounge shows how high the business to be closed for Lawyers, estimated his water was in his basement space at least a week. Fisher on Saturday night when Richland damages at nearly Creek rose after heavy rains. The didn’t have an emergen$60,000. Inside his force of the water moved the pool cy fund, but “had a good office, a converted table, caused a refrigerator to move year and cash flow is garage, his 1962 and crack a wall and left a layer of good” and will help pay Triumph convertible mud throughout the space. for damages, he said. sports car and Harley-Davidson motorAs far as planning for the future, Fisher

DEFINED High-Risk Areas: In high-risk areas, there is at least a 1 in 4 chance of flooding during a 30-year mortgage.

All home and business owners in these areas with mortgages from federally regulated or insured lenders are required to buy flood insurance.

Moderate- to Low-Risk Areas: In moderate-to-low risk areas, the risk of being flooded is reduced but not completely removed. These areas submit

said he will obtain the correct insurance and may consider relocating because he expects the flooding can happen again.

He also is investigating a digital off-site backup for client files and raising paper up above the potential flood level.

Tim Rosemond, owner of Signature Bar and Lounge just off Ashmore Street and close to the banks of Richland Creek, estimated the flood damage to his basement space at “$10,000, easy.”

The water was more than four feet

Undetermined Risk Areas: No flood-hazard analysis has been conducted in these areas, but a flood risk still exists. Flood insurance rates reflect the uncertainty of the flood risk.

deep in the lower level. Furniture and equipment had been moved out and arranged behind the building. Rosemond had not had any flooding issues at his business in 20 years, he said.

He plans to reopen the upstairs space right away, but predicts the basement will take at least two weeks to clean up.

Rosemond said he didn’t have flood insurance, just renter’s insurance. “My wife is checking up on flood insurance today,” he said Monday.

RA TE W NE

interruption insurance can help when cash flow has been disrupted and a business also has to rebuild.

“Property insurance may cover some of the damages, but there’s also the insurance deductible,” he said, calling it a “double-whammy.”

Small profit margins and the seasonality of some businesses like restaurants can also be factors when disaster strikes, Smythe said.

Sometimes that pinch can be too much, he said. “I would not be surprised that you see some of these [affected] businesses go under.”

Another way for businesses to prepare is take the advice of personal financial planners even further: Create an emergency fund of nine to 12 months of expenses, he said. Owners put profit back into their businesses, but should also consider putting it away into an emergency account.

“Unless we live in California or Florida, we always think it won’t happen to us,” he said of natural disaster. “The big thing is to expect the unexpected. We don’t like to think about it, but you need to have it in the back of your mind.”

over 20 percent of NFIP claims and receive one-third of disaster assistance for flooding. Flood insurance isn’t federally required in moderate-to-low areas, but it is recommended for all property owners and renters.

S!

Preparing for the worst The amount of rain that fell in such a short period of time in downtown Greenville on Saturday night was not expected, but there are ways for businesses to protect themselves against an event that may force them to close for a period of time, said Tom Smythe, associate professor of business at Furman University.

For businesses, especially small ones like those affected on East Stone Avenue, the challenge is the interruption to cash flow, Smythe said.

“For many businesses, if the doors aren’t open, they’re not generating income. It’s like an individual being out of work,” he said. The challenge grows if a business has debt related to property or equipment: “That bank loan doesn’t go away.”

Business interruption insurance is a good choice for business owners, but is often not a top-priority expense and may be cost-prohibitive, said Smythe. Many owners are self-financing their small businesses, so “managing risk beyond what is required by law will fall to the bottom of the list,” he said.

However, purchasing business

Source: National Flood Insurance Program

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UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

7

UBJ INVESTING

Online marketplace lets developers sell revitalization credits JOE TOPPE | STAFF

jtoppe@communityjournals.com South Carolina developers interested in monetizing their revitalization credits now have a marketplace for transactions.

The Tax Credit Marketplace (www. taxcreditmp.com) opened in October of last year and provides an online auction website for accredited investors to invest in projects, receive allocated credits, and reduce their state income tax, said John W. Boyd, founder of the Tax Credit Marketplace.

The company was formed following requests by real estate developers to assist them in sourcing investors for tax credits they were unable to use during economic decline, said Boyd.

“I realized in 2013 there was an opportunity for commercializing the idea and putting it in an online forum,” he said.

Developers have three options now available to generate South Carolina tax credits: the South Carolina Textiles Communities Revitalization Act, the South Carolina Abandoned Buildings Revitalization Act, and the Retail Facilities Revitalization Act.

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UBJ INVESTING Boyd said developers earn the credits based on the amount of money they spend on a particular project.

He said the Mills Mill project provides a good local example of the textiles act, Claussen Bakery in West Greenville is an example of the abandoned buildings act, and the ONE project in downtown Greenville provides a good example of retail revitalization.

The tax credits can be used in lieu of cash payment against South Carolina state income taxes, Boyd said.

“If you’re a taxpayer that has a $35,000 state income tax liability and you’ve got $25,000 worth of credit, you can apply those credits against your tax liability,” he said.

The Tax Credit Marketplace is building a database for developers to monetize their tax credits, bringing additional, often substantial dollars back into their projects, Boyd said.

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• As of 2014, the principals of Tax Credit Marketplace LLC have successfully facilitated the sale/ transfer of approximately $9 million in South Carolina credits with several potential projects in various stages of due diligence.

• Tax Credit Marketplace LLC’s auction-style website launched in July and the first auction is scheduled for late August or early September.

• More information: www.taxcreditmp.com “We’re looking for two different people to place in our database – one is the developer with the credits, and the other is the investor,” he said.

“We provide a avenue that puts these folks together.”

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UBJ ENTREPRENEURS

Office Introverts

Series announced for entrepreneurs

I have been reading the book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain. Introverts are people who recharge by spending time alone and need quiet time in order to succeed and be creative. According to Susan Cain, more than one third of all people are introverted, yet our world operates as if we are all extroverted.

Serrus Capital Partners recently opened applications and announced the speaker line-up for its 14-week Successful Entrepreneurship program. The program, which is currently in its third year, will accept 75 participants for the free series of programs. All accepted applicants will be notified by email and are expected to attend each class on Tuesday nights from 6-8 p.m., beginning on Aug. 26, with breaks on Oct. 21 and Nov. 25. Those accepted will also be given the location for the series, which will not be announced to the general public.

“The Successful Entrepreneur Series

Our workplaces are made for the extrovert.

Office furniture is positioned so employees can function as teams with little privacy. Companies have brainstorming sessions, but most ideas LEE YARBOROUGH come from the loudest voice. Presentations are mandatory, regardless of skill set. A constant stream of interruptions is normal in offices and expected to be managed well.

For the introvert, this can cause stress and may lead to performance issues or burnout. As managers, we need to know our staff and help them reach their greatest potential. Here are some suggestions to help your “Quieter” team members: • Give Advance notice. Introverts prefer to prepare and think before speaking. An impromptu brainstorming session will not produce the results you want if part of your team is introverted.

Prepare an agenda and communicate expectations. Allow time for preparation.

DATE

SPEAKER(S)

Aug. 26

Leighton Cubbage, Serrus Capital Partners

Sept. 2

Margaret Jenkins, Margaret Jenkins and Associates John Warner, Innoventure

Sept. 9

Dan Sterling, Green Cloud Technologies Edwin McCain, singer/songwriter

Sept. 16

Curtis Harper, Transworld Business Advisors Richard Davis, Trademark Properties and formerly of Flip This House fame

Sept. 23

Raven Magwood, author and motivational speaker Sharon Day, Sales Activation Group

Sept. 30

• Listen. Introverts need time to reflect while they respond.

An extroverted manager may get inpatient with this, but it is important not to interrupt their response. Just listen.

Phil Yanov, Tech After 5 Steve Caldwell, author and speaker

Oct. 7

Introverts add significant value to every workplace. Their differences need to be respected and celebrated. If you need convincing of the value of introversion in business, just look to Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, and Apple’s Steve Wozniak.

Sarah Anderson, attorney, Nelson, Mullins, Riley Scarborough Jeff Bostic, former Washington Redskin football player

Oct. 14

Art Seaver, Southern First Bank Mark Johnston, Community Journals

Oct. 28

Ray Lattimore, Marketplace Staffing Jane Robelot, CarolinaZoom Productions

Nov. 4

Toby Stansell, Acumen IT Steve Townes, Ranger Aerospace

Nov. 11

Joe Erwin, Erwin Penland

Nov. 18

Steve Mudge, Serrus Capital Partners

Dec. 2

Randy Dobbs, Matrix Medical Network

Dec. 9

Celebration with speaker Thom Shea

• Use different communication techniques. In addition to meetings, ask for ideas in writing. Many introverts prefer to communicate non-verbally and this will allow a chance for their voices to be heard.

• Encourage privacy. Offices today have open floor plans.

This does not allow the introvert to have the quiet space needed to refocus and be productive. Encourage quiet atmospheres and if possible, provide space where employees can have a privacy break.

669 N. Academy Street, Greenville, SC 864.679.6055 | 800.446.6567 | www.propelhr.com UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

August 15, 2014

M43A

• Consider work alternatives. If an introverted employee is in the middle of a big project, be flexible. They may be more effective working from home or a different environment.

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aims to gather the top thinkers in the Upstate, drawing on their expertise and wisdom to share insights with up-andcoming entrepreneurs,” said L e i g h t o n CUBBAGE Cubbage, chairman of Serrus Capital Partners. “This is a tremendous learning opportunity, and I’m confident that this will become a growth engine for the Upstate.”

For more information, visit successful-entrepreneurship.com.

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UBJ LEADERSHIP

57 selected for Leadership Greenville class The Greenville Chamber’s Leadership Greenville program has accepted 57 participants for its 41st class.

Participants were selected based on a thorough application process including essays, professional resume and community involvement.

Leadership Greenville is a 10month leadership development program designed to help develop informed, committed and qualified leaders for Greenville County, according to the Chamber. The program has graduated over 1,900 alumni since 1973, many of which have served in key positions, including school board, city and county council seats, members of Congress, judges and business leaders.

Each class selects a project or

projects to meet a need in the area.

Class projects are chosen based on proposals submitted by class members, as well as nonprofit Chamber-member organizations.

Acumen IT and The University of South Carolina Upstate are co-sponsoring Leadership Greenville Classes 41 and 42.

Denise M. Clemons, Fluor Corporation

Austin J. Goforth, Southern First Bank

CLASS 41 PARTICIPANTS

Kenneth B. Cosgrove, Piedmont Petroleum Corp

Brad J. Gower, Gallivan, White & Boyd

Luis M. Ackerman, Acumen IT

Natalie E. Crews, Furman University

Gavin P. Axson, Brasfield & Gorrie LLC

Kateri Harper, Julie Valentine Center

John L. Eldridge, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office

Allen F. Hellenga, Project Host

Keith S. Brown, Hitachi High Tech Kelly J. Byers, The Family Effect Catriona G. Carlisle, Meals on Wheels Sarah T. Clemmons, Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd PA

Whitney H. Hanna, NAI Earle Furman

Cheryl M. Fairley, Bon Secours St. Francis Health System Thomas C. Flinn, BB&T Raju Gavurla, LiiiVEN Inc.

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UBJ LEADERSHIP Michael A. Ivey, Rick Erwin Dining Group

Antoine L. Sullivan, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Upstate

Wendy Walden, Greenville Technical College

Thomas J. Way, Cherry Bekaert LLP

Shakeila Stuckey James, Stuckey James Events LLC

Melbourn W. Thompson, Greenville Health System

Martin M. Watson, Greenville Disabilities and Special Needs Board

Scott F. Wheeler, AFL

Eric S. Jarinko, Greenville Drive Baseball Club Rodney A. Johnson, Lead Academy Kimbrelly N. Kegler, Michelin Incubator Project Office Margaret G. Kleger, Britt, Peters and Associates Wade S. Kolb III, Wyche PA Katie E. Leckenbusch, Warehouse Theatre Skip Limbaker, Greenville County Schools Thomas E. Lockhart, McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture Ariel H. Lomas, General Electric

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August 15, 2014

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

13

INNOVATE

By JOHN WARNER, InnoVenture.com

Movers, shakers and disruptors shaping our future

Don’t miss out on JOBS Act opportunities I’m surprised. In 2012 Congress passed the JOBS Act, which provides entrepreneurs powerful new tools to raise capital. Last September, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued enabling regulations.

One Greenville company, Serrus Capital Partners, has successfully jumped all over this to raise capital.

Despite lots of calls to securities attorneys and entrepreneurs, I haven’t found another company in South Carolina that has.

To understand why the JOBS Act is such a big deal, let’s step back and review how most entrepreneurs raise capital today. Before we do, understand that securities laws are complicated and the penalties for violating them can be severe. Don’t act on what you read here; get advice from a really good securities attorney.

The default rule of securities law is that if you raise capital, you have to file a registration statement with the SEC. The first time this is done it’s called an initial public offering (IPO).

This is a difficult, expensive and highly regulated process most entrepreneurs don’t want to go anywhere near.

So entrepreneurs need to find an exception from the requirement to file a registration statement. The most common exception is contained in Rule 506(b) of Regulation D, which requires that the company cannot use “general solicitation” or advertising to market the securities. The entrepreneur has to have “pre-existing relationships” with investors they already know.

That doesn’t sound so bad until you layer on another rule. The company can sell its securities to an unlimited

We’ll begin to see websites on which companies can promote their offerings publicly, helping them attract investors they would otherwise never reach. number of “accredited investors” and up to 35 non-accredited investors, all of whom must be sophisticated in financial and business matters. There is a long definition of what an “accredited investor” is, but most real people, as opposed to investors like venture capital firms or trusts, who are accredited have a net worth of $1 million other than their home, or income exceeding $200,000, or joint income of $300,000 with their spouse.

Summarizing all this, to qualify for this exception, you basically can only raise capital from millionaires you already know. For people who hang in those circles that’s OK, but for many entrepreneurs that’s a problem because they don’t know that many millionaires.

The Internet has brought innovations to fundraising like just about everything else. On the most popular “crowdfunding” sites, like Kickstarter or Indiegogo, presenters aren’t selling securities, but they are raising funds

by pre-selling products to be developed or soliciting charitable contributions.

The JOBS Act allows “equity crowdfunding,” which is a whole other animal. Theoretically, the SEC will issue regulations that allow private companies to use equity crowdfunding to raise capital from large numbers of non-accredited individuals without the need for the formal IPO process.

This scares the socks off of regulators at the SEC, who have visions of debacles like Carolina Investors, where lots of small investors lose their life savings. The SEC will issue regulations for running “equity crowdfunding portal” websites, but when they do they’ll be so onerous that almost no one will operate one. A cynic would say that’s the point.

What’s developing, though – and this is the really big deal – is that there is a new exception to having to file a registration statement, Rule 506(c) of Regulation D. Now a private company

can raise capital publicly, which is what Serrus is doing. In exchange for the flexibility of being public, the SEC requires that the company now “validate” that an investor is accredited. A company can no longer just take the investor’s word that he or she is accredited; the company needs to see documents, like tax returns, or it needs to get a letter from a knowledgeable professional like a CPA, an attorney, or an investment advisor.

In the 1990s, I ran a venture capital firm called Capital Insights. I identified about 500 accredited individuals with whom I had a pre-existing relationship. I raised and invested $15 million from 150 accredited investors for investment in a dozen companies.

The challenge when I started an offering was which of the 500 prospects would be interested in the company for which I was raising capital. I’d schedule several investor meetings and send invitations to all 500 prospects. Those interested would self-identify by showing up.

There are around 70,000 millionaires in South Carolina. Had I been able to advertise publicly to reach thousands of prospects instead of only a few hundred, it would have supercharged what I was able to accomplish. What I think we’ll begin to see are websites on which companies can promote their offerings publicly, helping them attract accredited investor prospects they would otherwise never reach.

We’re at the beginning of a powerful new way for entrepreneurs to raise capital, which is particularly crucial for a capital-poor state like South Carolina.

Stay in the know.

Upstate Business Journal

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UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

August 15, 2014

@UpstateBiz

TheUpstateBusinessJournal

By JERRY FOUNTAIN, Verizon Wireless regional president

WORKING WELL Good health is good for business

The doctor will see you now

New technologies are linking patients to health care 24/7 – and lowering costs I continually hear from health care providers seeking creative solutions to improve patient compliance with prescribed treatment plans. Many of these patients have just suffered a health crisis and feel overwhelmed with their life-changing health event and the course of care it has precipitated.

They feel abandoned after leaving the care setting and unsure how to comply with the requirements of treatment.

We are all affected by the changing world of health care, but for those who suffer from chronic diseases, which account for 75 percent of all health care spending, hospital readmissions are an especially large problem. Readmissions

are expensive for patients, emthe Telcare wireless glucose NUMBERED ployers and health care systems. monitor. This device looks and In fact, one in five Medicare feels like a traditional glucose patients return to the hospital monitor, but the Telcare unit uses after 30 days for the same or a a cellular network to send up-torelated condition, costing the the-minute charts to a patient’s Medicare program $15 billion wireless device or laptop. Doctors, annually. who also see patient data, track 1 IN 5 MEDICARE patients return to the and adjust treatment and mediReadmissions cause American hospital after 30 days for the same or a hospitals to forfeit $300 million cations, when necessary, and they related condition, costing the Medicare each year in federal penalties, have the ability to send messages program $15 billion annually. and reducing the readmission of encouragement to patients rate is the only way hospitals can through the device. This gives rise We need innovative solutions to to a year-round culture of care. prevent future penalties. Health care systems seek to accomplish that by streamline care, and technology is Businesses that self-insure share in creating a culture of care that tracks paving the way. the optimism of health care systems New technologies coming to about the budding future of mHealth a patient’s progress once discharged market help doctors create year- solutions. The Centers for Disease from an inpatient care setting. round care models that emphasize Control reports that American workers quality of life and real-time health with chronic diseases cost employers and lifestyle coaching. Patients $226 billion each year. And, according become more optimistic about their to a study in US Endocrinology, which health and are more likely to comply breaks out costs of workers with diawith their doctor’s treatment plan. betes, the average diabetic costs an Remote patient monitoring is espe- employer $6,000 more in health-recially important for patients who suffer lated expenses annually than a from chronic diseases – such as diabe- non-diabetic employee. tes and heart disease – who are likeliest Diabetics who use a mobile health to return to an inpatient setting shortly care solution for monitoring diabetes after being discharged. Readmissions saved their employers an average of go down when these patients are $3,300 last year, and that doesn’t even equipped with a cellular-enabled device count the money returned to employthat tracks and sends biometric data ers due to improved productivity and to their doctors, such as blood glucose, less absenteeism. mHealth solutions blood pressure, heart rate and rhythm save employers five times the cost of and blood oxygen levels. This data the monitoring program itself. transfer takes place whether the patient Beyond the cost savings, patient is at home, at work or traveling. health is at stake, and better, more mHealth – which describes tech- accurate health monitoring leads to nologies that create this direct and better outcomes. continuous, wireless link – is seeing Health care providers find that amazing growth in 2014. According patient care improves for those using to a Berg Insight study, use of mHealth mHealth devices for a couple of devices is expected to increase from reasons. First, the patient is aware that 2.8 million in 2012 to about 9.4 health data is shared with the doctor. million by 2017. And 2014 promises And second, patients no longer feel to be a watershed year with more FDA unsupported between doctor visits. approvals imminent for cellular-en- The mHealth device creates a yearround atmosphere of cooperation and abled health care technologies.

One of the first cellular-enabled partnership between doctor and devices to receive FDA approval is patient that benefits us all.

August 15, 2014

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

15

COVER STORY

MAKING THE OFFERS THEY CAN’T REFUSE

State and local tax incentives are a part of the reason businesses choose the Upstate JOE TOPPE | STAFF jtoppe@communityjournals.com

While South Carolina businesses pay higher property taxes than their contemporaries in North Carolina and Georgia, the tax incentive programs offered to new businesses in the Palmetto State could be used to offset the operating and startup costs of establishing a new facility.

Data compiled by Parker Poe Consulting shows property tax rates for businesses in South Carolina are two to three times higher than those in North Carolina and Georgia. Currently, the property tax rate for S.C. businesses ranges from $21 to $47.25 per $1,000 in fair market value, for an average of $28.35 per 1,000 in Greenville County. That compares to an average of $14.10 per $1,000 in FMV in Georgia and $6.125 per $1,000 in FMV in North Carolina.

“South Carolina’s property tax

➤ NUMBERED

burden shifted from residential to business and industrial following Act 388 passing in 2006,” said John Lummus, president and CEO of the Upstate SC Alliance.

The legislation was designed to ease the annual property tax for homeowners by moving school funding from residential property tax revenues to sales taxes.

Lummus said despite the property tax shift created by Act 388 and the 10.5 percent industrial rate, South Carolina remains very competitive in recruiting and retaining industry, as highlighted by the $3.6 billion in capital investment garnered by the Upstate in 2014.

Depending on the capital investment, state law allows qualifying manufacturing projects to reduce their property tax rates from 10.5 percent to 6 percent or 4 percent, which helps to reduce property tax rates by 40 percent or more on those industries, he said.

GADC 2013 job announcements:

State offers statutory, discretionary incentives

projects announced in 2013

To offset the disparity between business property taxes in neighboring states, Allison Skipper, spokeswoman for the South Carolina Department of Commerce, said the state offers two types of incentives to potential businesses: statutory incentives (in law) and discretionary incentives (meaning the Coordinating Council for Economic Development must approve the grant or other incentive).

Each grant application is considered on its own merits, and not all

21 $239.9 million 1,001 18.1%

in new capital investment

jobs announced

above county average wages

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UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

August 15, 2014

projects will request or receive grants from the state, she said. If state funds are committed to a project, the company must certify that it has created the number of jobs and amount of investment agreed upon.

Skipper said state incentive decisions are evaluated on the individual project’s impact to the area and the state.

Factors include the amount of capital investment, job creation, and where the company is planning to locate, and what “we might need to make that site more competitive,” she said. State grants can assist with infrastructure, such

a s water and sewer, roadways or building upfits, while other incentives, like job develo p m e n t credits, provide tax rebates to employers once they reach their committed job targets.

Tax abatements, FILOT agreements on local menu Tax incentives are also offered at a local level, and the Greenville Area Development Corporation (GADC) utilizes two significant local incentives, combined with regional infrastructure and target strategy, to lure potential businesses to the Upstate.

County incentives include property tax abatement and fee-in-lieu of property tax incentives, said Kevin Landmesser, interim president and CEO of GADC. “With the state’s property tax in mind, it is essential for us to compensate in other areas to present as attractive a package as we can to ensure business expansion or relocation,” he said. “A key part of a company’s decision to come here is the property tax relief.”

Landmesser said larger projects with significant capital investments

>>

COVER STORY

WHAT’S ON THE TABLE South Carolina rewards companies for job creation by reducing corporate income tax liability.

STATE-LEVEL DISCRETIONARY INCENTIVES JOB DEVELOPMENT CREDIT A discretionary, performance-based incentive that rebates a portion of new employees’ withholding taxes that can be used to address the specific needs of individual companies. JDCs are approved on a case-by-case basis by the S.C. Coordinating Council for Economic Development.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SET-ASIDE PROGRAM Assists companies in locating or expanding in South Carolina through road or site improvements and other costs related to business location or expansion. Overseen by the Coordinating Council for Economic

Development, it is the Council’s primary business development tool for assisting local governments with road, water/sewer infrastructure, or site improvements related to business location or expansion.

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Assists qualified counties in the state’s rural areas by providing financial assistance for infrastructure and other activities that enhance economic growth and development. It can be used for job creation and/or product development. Qualified counties are designated as Tier III or Tier IV by the Department of Revenue and have received approval for an economic

development strategic plan by the Coordinating Council for Economic Development.

PORT VOLUME INCREASE CREDIT A possible credit against income taxes or withholding taxes to entities that use state port facilities and increase base port cargo volume by 5 percent over base-year totals. To qualify, a company must have 75 net tons of non-containerized cargo or 10 loaded TEUs transported through a South Carolina port for their base year. The total amount of tax credits allowed to all qualifying companies is limited to $8 million per calendar year.

TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT GRANTS Supports new or expanding tourism or recreation facilities or designated development areas primarily through infrastructure projects. This program is generated from a share of the state admissions tax on qualified tourism and recreation establishments and is overseen by the Coordinating Council for Economic Development.

CLOSING FUND The Governor’s Closing Fund was created in 2006 when additional, more flexible funding was needed to assist with high-impact economic development projects.

COUNTY INCENTIVES PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT – STATUTORY

of Revenue; deduction is automatic.

South Carolina provides a county property tax abatement to new or existing companies making new capital investments in the state.

Mechanics: The abatement is a waiver of the county’s operating portion (60.5 mills) of property tax.

Purpose: Reduce tax burden when new assets are at their greatest value.

Property Tax: Value x Assessment Ratio x Millage

Value: Approximately 20-25 percent tax reduction annually for five years on new capital investment.

Tax Example:(assumes manufacturer & non-depreciable asset) $10 million investment x 10.5 percent assessment ratio x 0.2850 (average) millage rate = $299,250 annual tax (before abatement)

Requirements: • Invest greater than $50,000 in new capital expenditures in one year.

• Company must be involved in manufacturing, research and development, corporate headquarters, or distribution/ warehouse facilities.

• If other than manufacturer or R&D, must create at least 75 new jobs.

• File tax return/PT-300 to SC Dept.

>> are receiving the fee-in-lieu of property tax incentive, and if they are creating a lot of jobs, they are receiving state incentives. Since 1997, Landmesser said there have been only two companies that could not fulfill their original job announcement or capital investment to receive the

Abatement Savings Example: $10 million investment x 10.5 percent assessment ratio x 0.0605 millage abatement = $63,525 annual abatement savings or $317,625 over five years. So taxes after the abatement in Year 1 would be $235,725.

complete array of incentives.

“We adjusted both agreements to ensure these businesses continued their investment once things turned around,” he said.

Companies tend to go through three steps before relocating: information gathering (site research), a visit to

FEE-IN-LIEU OF PROPERTY TAX – NEGOTIATED

A company may negotiate with the Greenville Area Development Corporation a Fee-in-Lieu of Property Taxes (FILOT) agreement. FILOT agreements are subject to final approval by Greenville County Council.

investment (greater than $10 million over five years).

• Project must be competitive with other locations.

Requirements: • Company must be manufacturer, warehouse/distributor or an office/ headquarters.

• Commit to significant new

Mechanics: • May lower assessment ratio from 10.5 percent to as low as 6 percent on real and personal property for manufacturers.

• For headquarters and corporate offices, the assessment ratio can be reduced from 10.5 percent to as low as 6 percent on personal property (real property is already assessed at 6 percent).

• May lock millage rate for 20 years or adjust it every five years; historical millage increase has been 1.5 percent annually.

• Bond/Incentive attorney must prepare legal documents.

• Eight-week process with County Council.

validate (ensuring the research is accurate), and negotiating incentives, which could make or break the deal.

On top of state and local tax incentives, Landmesser said the Upstate offers a unique blend of infrastructure and in-house development strategies to attract potential business.

The Upstate offers access to the Inland Port; a consolidated workforce development effort by local educational venues such as universities, community colleges, and county schools; and a strong target and adaptable strategy to appease the demands of varying industry, he said.

Purpose: Reward substantial investment by reducing tax burden over the long term.

Value: Approximately 42 percent tax reduction annually for 20 years on new capital investment occurring in a five-year investment window.

August 15, 2014

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

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COVER STORY

MONEY ISN’T

EVERYTHING Although important, increased tax incentives aren’t the only key to luring businesses to the Upstate

JOE TOPPE | STAFF jtoppe@communityjournals.com

Although tax incentives are offered to businesses that choose to relocate or expand in South Carolina, state and local officials agree that incentives seldom play a large role in a company’s site-selection process.

For most companies, incentives are not the driving force in a decision, said Allison Skipper, spokeswoman for the SC Dept. of Commerce. The fundamental aspects of a location decision are based on site, infrastructure and workforce.

“Without those critical components, we are not competitive to land a project,” she said.

Incentives are primarily a tool to assist with infrastructure improvements and building upfits. The latest site selection survey data from Area Development magazine showed respondents listed state and local incentives as the 13th most important factor in a decision location.

Looking to the skies Kevin Landmesser, interim president and CEO of the Greenville Area Development Corporation (GADC), said Sealed Air Corporation cited many factors other than incentives for their recently announced choice to headquarter in Charlotte rather than Greenville.

In an interview with the Upstate Business Journal earlier this month, Sealed Air spokesman Ken Aurichio

18

said the company considered the business environment and quality of life for its employees before choosing a final location.

“The airport in Charlotte was more conducive for company travel than Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, and the existing workforce around Charlotte consisted of IT, HR, and finance professionals that were more suitable to the positions needed,” he said.

Landmesser said GSP’s direct international flight availability had an effect on Sealed Air’s final site selection.

The company’s executives named airport service as a key selection criteria and pointed to GSP’s lack of international flights as a deciding factor, he said.

Limited flight options may not rule

HOW WE’RE REACHING THEM In relationship with area organizations such as the Greenville Chamber and the United Way, the GADC created the Business Retention and Expansion Program in 2007 to: • Reach out to existing business and industry (of all types) to determine their specific needs and connect them with the resources to aid in their continued success.

• Create a routine meeting schedule with county businesses to ensure workforce demands are being met by connecting area colleges with companies.

• Provide direction to public policy efforts headquartered at the Greenville Chamber of Commerce to shape initiatives designed to enhance soil conditions for businesses.

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

August 15, 2014

out the Upstate for similar projects, but “it does make it extremely difficult.”

GSP International Airport recognizes how important it is to work with local organizations in recruiting new industry and business into the region, said GSP spokeswoman Roslyn Weston.

Including leaders of local chambers, economic development organizations, and convention and visitors bureaus, the airport created an Air Service Development Working Group to assist GSP’s efforts in recruiting additional services into the marketplace, she said. “Additional services and air carriers will help everyone.”

Tangibles and intangibles in play With availa available flight services in mind, Landmesser said companies look at both tangible and intangible factors ahead of possible incentives.

Tangible factors affecting the bottom line could be security, highway or port accessibility, market attraction, or availability of skilled labor, he said.

Intangibles may include where a CEO wants to live, where friends are, or family ties.

While incentives are often downplayed in a company’s site selection process, Landmesser said every organization establishes its own criteria for choosing a location.

For some, it is airport or highway access, and for others it is workforce readiness or proximity to suppliers.

There are, however, certain commonalities ranked at the top, such as building availability, existing workforce, and supplier proximity, he said.

Incentives can pay off Although Landmesser highlights many ranking factors in a

Rise in Home Pricing Cools: What does this mean for Home Sellers?

COVER STORY

WHAT THEY’RE GETTING Heiche US Surface Technology $100,000 grant – Spartanburg $4 million investment and 38 new jobs (new facility) Toray Industries $10 million grant – Spartanburg $1 billion investment and 500 jobs (new facility) ZF Transmissions $ 2 million grant – Laurens $175 million expansion (bringing total to more than $600 million) and 450 new jobs. By 2016 employee count expected to reach 1,650.

Esurance (Allstate) $400,000 grant – Greenville $2.1 million investment and 450 jobs (new facility)

company’s site selection, tax incentives did play a role in GE’s decision to expand in Greenville County, breaking ground on a $400 million advanced manufacturing facility in June.

While GE considered two other states for the home of its recently announced manufacturing facility, the job development incentives offered by South Carolina, along with the tax incentives offered by Greenville County, provided mutually beneficial opportunities that helped in making the decision, said Shaun Wiggins, GE spokesman.

Recognizing that U.S. corporate tax rates are among the highest in

WHERE TO?

U.S. home prices rose in June by the smallest amount year-overyear in 20 months. Data provider CoreLogic reports prices rose by 7.5% year-over-year in June, which is off from a high of almost 12% in February. Could this mean the beginning of a cooling of the real estate market? Locally, homes priced in the $120,000 to $180,000 range continue to see strong demand; however, we are seeing some stagnation in higher price points.

WHAT THEY’RE LOOKING FOR

GSP provides direct flights to 17 cities and 21 airports, including: Atlanta Baltimore Charlotte Chicago Cincinnati Cleveland Dallas Detroit Ft. Lauderdale Houston New York Newark Orlando Philadelphia Punta Gorda St. Petersburg Washington, D.C.

the world at more than 30 percent, Landmesser said Greenville still had to compete aggressively for GE’s manufacturing investment against dozens of other locations.

South Carolina has a high property tax rate when compared to the other competing sites, and in Greenville County, “we knew we had to blunt that advantage with a fee-in-lieu of tax arrangement,” he said. The company received a “Super FILOT,” which reduces the property taxation rate to 4 percent.

That arrangement is restricted to organizations committing to invest a minimum of $400 million locally.

An Esurance sales and claims

1.

Labor costs

2.

Highway accessibility

3.

Availability of skilled labor

4.

Availability of advanced ICT services

5.

Occupancy or construction costs

6.

Energy availability and costs

7.

Corporate tax rates

8.

Availability of buildings

9.

Tax exemptions

10. Low union profile 11. Right-to-Work state 12. Proximity to major markets 13. (tie) State and local incentives; environmental regulations 14. Expedited or “fast-tracked” permitting 15. Inbound/outbound shipping costs Source: Area Development magazine 27th annual survey

office announced in February is expected to bring 450 new jobs and a $2.1 million investment to the area. Landmesser said the state’s tax incentives helped to persuade the insurance company to come to Greenville.

Because the company is in the service industry, their property taxes are already set at 6 percent, so locally, “we could not provide any incentives,” he said. The state provided a set-aside grant for site and building improvements to assist in bringing the company to the Upstate.

Because their tax incentives had not been finalized, Esurance officials could not comment.

August 15, 2014

While it may appear that potential home sellers missed the hot market, the good news about late summer and early fall is that we typically see another round Dan Hamilton of buying activity. While the pace may not be as brisk as it was, there is still a strong pool of buyers looking.

What does that mean for home sellers? It means a slower and more balanced market; if you have a quality home that shows well and is priced well, it will sell.

One quick tip for those selling now and wanting to make sure your home shows well to potential buyers: Create a short checklist of tasks to get your home ready for each showing and post it on the refrigerator. When you get a showing request, especially on short notice, take out the checklist so you can quickly prepare your home for potential buyers.

To receive an instant home valuation emailed directly to you, log in to www.mygreenvillehomevalue.com, enter your address, confirm a few details and watch your inbox to see what your home might sell for in this market.

864-527-7685 MyGreenvilleHome.com Each Keller Williams Realty Office is Independently Owned and Operated

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

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50 YEARS

MILESTONE A tribute to our long-lasting enterprises learn more

Jim Benson with part of his car collection in the Memory Lane museum located behind his Greer auto dealership.

‘It’s been a lot of fun’ With 50 years behind the wheel of Benson Automotive, family and community are what drive Jim Benson

By Jennifer Reynolds | contributor

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UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

In 1964, Jim Benson opened Benson Automotive. Fifty years later, Benson Automotive is one of the largest automotive families in the Upstate, home to a collection of rare and antique cars, and a heavy investor in the local community.

Benson is a South Carolina native with deep roots in the Upstate. In his youth, he cultivated a strong work ethic and quickly discovered he had a talent for earning money and a passion for cars. He says loving what he does is the reason he has had so much success.

“It’s been a lot of fun,” Benson says of his 50 years in the car business.

It’s a philosophy that has proven successful.

Benson Automotive has grown to include seven different locations across Greer, Spartanburg and Easley.

Despite its size, Benson Automotive is still very much a family business. Jim Benson himself is president of the company. His son, Tony

August 15, 2014

Photos by Greg Beckner

For more about Jim Benson’s $3 million gift to Greenville Tech, see this week’s Greenville Journal.

Benson, oversees the locations in Spartanburg; his son-in-law, David Crow, runs the locations in Easley; and his daughter, Leesa Crow, runs the family warranty company.

Out of the mill

Jim Benson began working at age 12. He delivered newspapers, installed TVs and antennas, washed and lubed cars at a filling station, and even worked third shift at Greer Mill during his junior year in high school. Shift work didn’t suit him, and he constantly looked for another job.

An automobile provided him with a way out of shift work. He learned of an 18-wheeler designed to transport cars that was for sale. With the help of a friend and a loan from the Bank of Greer, he purchased the truck and launched his first entrepreneurial venture: a car-hauling operation. Right away, he began hauling cars from Philadelphia and New York to South Carolina.

50 YEARS

MILESTONE A tribute to our long-lasting enterprises

The truck required costly repairs and Benson was forced to borrow money to pay for its maintenance. His friend wanted out of the business and Benson was on his own with his mounting debt.

He continued to drive the truck for about a year, until he paid off his debt to his friend and to the bank, and he sold the hauling truck for a $200 profit. With the money, he began a new venture.

“I took the money I got out of it, and started to buy my own cars up there and bring them south,” Benson says.

In 1956, Benson married Evelyn Copeland. Eager to be home with his new wife, Benson wanted a job that did not require travel. True to his entrepreneurial nature, he opened a used car lot on Poinsett Street in Greer.

Seven years later, Chrysler approached Benson about becoming a franchisee. Chrysler wanted to grow and Benson liked what he saw in their cars. He agreed to the franchise.

Taking root, growing outward

It was a shrewd decision. The next two years were banner years for Benson Automotive. The company quickly outgrew the small lot on Poinsett, and in 1965 moved to a new building on Wade Hampton Boulevard. In 1978, the dealership moved about a mile down the road, to its current location.

In subsequent years, Benson Automotive began expanding. First, in 1989 to Spartanburg where Jim placed his son, Tony Benson, in charge. Then, in 1993 to Easley, where he purchased a Ford dealership and put his son-in-law, David Crow,

The first Benson Automotive dealership in Greer was constructed in 1965. This photo shows cars from the 1970s on the lot.

in charge. In 1994, Benson added a Nissan franchise to the Easley store.

In 1998, Jim Benson was diagnosed with throat cancer. For roughly one year, he stepped back from day-to-day operations during his treatment and recovery, returning to full-time work once he was well.

In the last two years, Benson has added a Fiat dealership in Greer and two additional locations in Spartanburg. Benson recently learned he’s been accepted as an Alfa Romeo dealer, bringing the total number of Benson Automotive locations to seven.

Benson says many factors go into what makes one car sell well and makes another a bust.

“You’ve always got something that’s easier to sell than others,” he says.

Intersecting with Memory Lane

In 1965, Benson bought his first antique car, a 1936 Chrysler C7 Airstream convertible. It was a new way for Benson to express his love of cars, and over the years he would buy and sell numerous antique cars.

In 2000, Benson began collecting

used cars in earnest. He bought so many that he built a museum to house his collection and named it Memory Lane. Benson’s Chrysler C7 Airstream is one of 29 cars and 16 motorcycles housed in Memory Lane, along with one of Benson’s personal favorites, a 1953 Cadillac Eldorado convertible.

Benson frequently uses the location for special events. Besides housing the antique autos, Memory Lane is decorated as a ’50s-style diner and allows ample room for dining and entertainment.

Doing the right thing at home

The local community is important to Benson.

“I was raised in Greer,” Benson said.

“I’ve been here all my life and I’ve always supported charities here in Greer.”

He began donating to the Greer Meals on Wheels program at its inception in 1972. He became a board member of the Greenville Tech Foundation in 2002 and recently donated $3 million to the school, the largest cash gift in school history. To honor him, the school has named their Greer location the Benson Campus.

“It was just the right thing for me to do,” he said.

In 2007, Benson Automotive began hosting an annual fundraiser to benefit Meals on Wheels. The benefit, held the first weekend in October at the First Baptist Church in Greer, includes an antique car show and a 5K race. Benson invites about 100 donors to Memory Lane for a party to show his appreciation. Over the years, Benson Automotive has raised roughly $300,000 through this event.

After 50 years and seven locations, Benson shows no signs of slowing down.

“If he’s in town, he’s at his desk,” says son Tony Benson.

When asked about the key to Benson Automotive’s success, Tony Benson says, “We’re just a local family-owned automotive group.

We’ve been here all our lives and have a great loyal group of employees that work with us. I think our group of employees is our biggest asset.”

Benson shows off a record used on the record player available as an option in the 1957 Dodge D-500 Custom Royal in the Memory Lane museum.

Through the Years 1949: Jim Benson begins hauling business

1945 1957: Benson opens used car lot on Poinsett Street in Greer

1965: Move to new location on Wade Hampton Boulevard in Greer & Benson buys first antique car

1955 1964: Becomes Chrysler franchise

1989: Opens second location in Spartanburg

1965

2005: Memory Lane built

1994: Added Nissan franchise to Easley store

2012: Opens Fiat dealership in Greer 1975

1985

1995

1993: Purchased Ford dealership in Easley 1978: Moves to current location on Wade Hampton

2014: Named Alfa Romeo dealer for South Carolina

1998: Benson steps back for one year from day-to-day operations after throat cancer

August 15, 2014

2005 2008: Survives Chrysler’s dramatic cut of 789 dealerships

2013: Two additional locations open in Spartanburg

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

21

FINE PRINT Business briefs you can’t miss

Shine the Light Academy to host Rogers The Shine the Light Leadership Academy will present a workshop entitled “Expanding Leadership Beyond Your Walls” Sept. 9 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Kroc Community Center in Greenville.

Workshop leader Sydney Rogers is the executive director of Alignment Nashville, an organization that works to align community organizations for positive impact. Joining Rogers in the session will be Liberty Canzater of the Butterfly Foundation, Tony McDade of GAIHN, Sean Dogan of Long Branch Baptist Church, and Susan Sacks of the Project HOPE Foundation.

The workshop will focus SYDNEY ROGERS on elements of collaborative leadership, such as crafting a shared vision and goals; distributing power, decision-making and rewards equally; and establishing open and frequent communications between partnering organizations.

For more information or to register, visit nonprofitforums.org or call Elissa Visotski at 864-235-0959, extension 8.

Sunland, Artisan announce partnership Sunland Logistics Solutions of Greenville County recently announced a strategic partnership with Artisan Logistics of Columbia, S.C., to serve as an in-house carrier to support Sunland’s customers with transportation outside of their network range.

Sunland Logistics Solutions offers transportation solutions for shuttle and dedicated moves within a 200-mile range of their warehouse network in the Upstate and Lowcountry.

The partnership allows Sunland to have access to Artisan’s over 9,000 drivers, 14,000 pieces of equipment, and a rail and air network, as well as

EDTS named on CRN’s Nex-Gen 250 EDTS, a firm specializing in full-service technology including network security, managed IT services and advanced infrastructure for Southeastern business, recently announced that it has been recognized as a member of CRN’s 2014 Next-Gen 250 list for the third consecutive year.

According to a release, the CRN Next-Gen 250 “highlights up-andcoming technology solution providers who have adapted their businesses in unique ways to meet market demands for

ALL SPORTS 24/7

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UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

its parent company Landstar’s non-vessel operating common carrier (NVOCC) authority for international cargo.

In addition to the partnership, Sunland is currently opening two new facilities, which total over 400,000 square feet, and expanding their Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) space “to meet the demands of national and international manufacturers moving into and growing in the market,” said a release.

As a part of expanding their FTZ space, Sunland recently announced that its 730,000-square-foot facility in Simpsonville is now an active FTZ site.

August 15, 2014

emerging technologies such as unified communications, managed services, virtualization and cloud computing.”

“Making the Next-Gen 250 list again is evidence that we are committed to keeping our client’s business networks running at the highest levels of performance, security and efficiency,” said Charles Johnson, CEO of EDTS, which has offices in Greenville as well as Columbia, S.C., and Augusta, Ga., in a release.

To view the Next-Gen 250 list, visit crn.com.

EVER PANT

FINE PRINT Business briefs you can’t miss

Tempus Jets enters business combination with Chart Acquisition Corp.

Tempus Jets, an aviation services business with an Upstate presence, has inked a definite agreement to complete a business combination transaction with Chart Acquisition Corp., the companies announced.

Tempus Jets modifies, leases and operates commercial aircraft for specialized purposes for govern-

ments, corporations and individuals. The company is headquartered in Williamsburg, Va., with a location at Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, and additional locations in Maine, Colorado, Arizona, Uganda and Bahrain.

Chart Acquisition Corp. is “a

Primrose School to celebrate grand opening To mark the official entrance of Primrose Schools into South Carolina, Primrose Schools franchise owner Lauren Briles will host a grand opening event for local families to celebrate the new Primrose School of Greenville at 404 Houston St. on Saturday, Aug. 16, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony begins at 10:15 a.m. with Mayor Knox White. The celebration will include school tours, face painting, storytelling, a photo booth, live music and an appear-

ance by Primrose mascot Percy the Rooster.

Having officially opened its doors to students on Monday, Aug. 4, Primrose School of Greenville is the first and only Primrose School in South Carolina. Adding approximately 30 jobs and $3.5 million in project costs, the 11,700-squarefoot school can serve more than 185 local children and families.

For more information, call 864370-8118 or visit www.primrosegreenville.com.

RY CAROLINA THERS GAME

special purpose acquisition company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination involving Chart and one or more businesses,” according to the statement.

The business combination values Tempus Jets at $140 million, said the statement.

When the transaction is closed, Chart Acquisition Corp. will be renamed The Tempus Group Inc. and intends to apply to list its shares of common stock on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol “TJET,” the statement said. Tempus’ founder and CEO Scott Terry and his partner, Jack Gulbin, together will own a majority interest in the combined company.

All of the members of the Tempus senior management team will continue in their current positions, the companies said.

Project IMPACT offers free website for local nonprofit Project IMPACT, a community service program offered by Full Media, is accepting nominations and applications for one Greenville-area nonprofit to receive a free website.

The deadline for entry is Aug. 31 and the selected nonprofit will be notified and announced in mid-September.

“We are excited about the opportunity to utilize our team’s skill and expertise to help a local nonprofit communicate more effectively,” said

Kris Nordholz, CEO of Full Media, in a release.

To nominate a nonprofit or submit an application, visit fullmedia.com/ project-impact. For more information, contact sarbogast@fullmedia.com.

EVERY CLEMSON TIGERS GAME

August 15, 2014

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

23

SETTING UP A BUSINESS DINNER? THINK

SQUARE FEET Real estate deals and developments across the region

Link targets millennials with 217-unit West End apartment complex SHERRY JACKSON | STAFF

sjackson@communityjournals.com It’s a new week, so it’s time for yet

AUGUST 21–31 T H I S Y E A R ' S R E S TA U R A N T S :

Look for our special insert in the this week for menus and information on how you can

WIN A $50 GIFT CERTIFICATE from a participating Foodie Fest restaurant.

Timely updates, information, & more:

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UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

August 15, 2014

another new apartment complex announcement – or at least it seems that way. To date, more than 2,000 multifamily units have been announced or are currently under construction in downtown Greenville alone.

The newest announcement is a six-story, 217-unit complex at Rhett and River streets in the West End, to be built by North Carolina developer Grubb Properties.

City Welding Services, currently located on one of the two parcels, will be relocating, hopefully to a new location on Poinsett Highway, said a company spokesperson.

Onsite amenities for the Link Apartments will include two courtyards, a dog park, swimming pool, rooftop terrace, fitness center and club room. The apartment complex will also have a premium bicycle amenity with a maintenance stand and additional bicycle storage.

The building will be built as podium construction with subterranean parking that is screened and hidden from view.

Studio, one- and two-bedroom units will be a “little smaller than the national average,” but will have balconies, large windows and high-end finish-

es with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, walk-in closets, vinyl plank floors and side-by-side washer/ dryers, said Rachel Russell, director of real estate development for Grubb Properties.

Two-bedroom units will be designed for roommates, with both bedrooms equal in size and fixtures.

“We’re targeting millennial renters,” said Russell.

The apartment complex will be the fourth location of Grubb Properties’ new urban infill brand called Link. The Link brand targets locations in “proven neighborhoods” where there is demand and growth projections for millennials who want an urban environment to walk to shops and restaurants.

“We have been looking for the right location, and the West End of Greenville is perfect,” said Russell. Other Link properties are located in Raleigh and Winston-Salem in North Carolina and Richmond, Va., with many more in the planning stage.

This will be Grubb Properties’ first new construction in Greenville. The company owns and manages three other properties near Pelham Road: Beacon Ridge, Sterling Westchester and Sterling Pelham.

The application will go in front of the Design Review Board in September and Russell says that if approved, the company plans to start construction by January 2015 with units ready for move-in in spring 2016.

SHERRY JACKSON | STAFF sjackson@communityjournals.com @SJackson_CJ

SQUARE FEET Real estate deals and developments across the region

New 8-story development would connect to Erwin Penland building An application has been filed with the City of Greenville for an eight-story office building in the North of Broad district. Preliminary renderings show the building named EP360, and plans call for a two-story bridge connector to the existing Erwin Penland 2 building at 125 E. Broad St. While plans may change, the initial application also calls for a three-story parking garage below five stories of commercial office space, along with a

rooftop terrace.

“It’s no secret

that with Erwin Penland’s continued growth, we’ve been evaluating options for additional space for more than two years, and

our preference is to stay in downtown Greenville,” said Joe Erwin, president of Erwin Penland. “We’ve received serious inquiries and proposals from multiple developers and property owners, but any announcement regarding a building project would be premature at this time.”

The application is set to be reviewed at the Sept. 4 Design Review Board meeting.

Rendering Courtesy of Gensler

Zaxby’s rolls out new look at 2 Upstate locations A new Zaxby’s location currently under construction in the Wal-Mart Supercenter shopping center on Gentry Memorial Highway in Pickens will look completely different from other traditional Zaxby’s locations.

“It’s the third generation of the Zaxby’s concept,” said Jeremy Thorton, Pickens licensee for Zaxby’s, a franchised chain of more than 600 fast-casual restaurants offering chicken wings, chicken fingers, sandwiches and salads.

“Really everything has been changed, except for the menu,” said Thorton, referring to the new concept restaurant. The floor plan has been redesigned to better accommodate guests and the crew, the front register area can accommodate more customers, and back areas have been redesigned to “promote speed and accuracy,” he said. Even the dining room will look a little different with different décor and a redesigned drink

26

station area.

Outside, customers will definitely notice the red barn-like structure.

“It’s a Southern rustic building,” said Thorton. “It looks really good and it’s unique.”

It’s one of three store sizes and an optional building plan to Zaxby’s licensees. Thorton liked the look and wanted something that would “work with the location in Pickens at the base of the foothills,” he said.

His company, Chicken Pickin’ Inc., based in

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

August 15, 2014

Georgia, already owns two Zaxby’s in Elberton and Lavonia, Ga. Thorton has another store planned for Oconee County and is scouting additional locations in Walhalla and possibly Exit 1 near the South Carolina/ Georgia state line.

The Pickens location is set to open in early September. Thorton said he plans to hire 40-45 employees.

In Easley, the Zaxby’s at 6015 Calhoun Memorial Highway closed on July 16 to

get ready for a new, bigger Zaxby’s restaurant.

Zax Inc., the largest Zaxby’s licensee with more than 100 locations across the Southeast and Texas, purchased the lot next door to the now-closed location. The new Zaxby’s restaurant will be about 1,000 square feet larger than the previous one and will have the same new design concept as the new Pickens Zaxby’s, said J.J. DeRoy, director of market development for Zax Inc. The Easley restaurant will also feature a first of its kind for Zaxby’s: a double drive-thru.

The previous restaurant only had “less than 40 seats” and had been around for 14 years, so it was time for a change.

“The Easley location has been a very successful location,” said DeRoy. Construction has already begun on the Easley Zaxby’s and it should be reopened in December.

NEW TO THE STREET The freshest faces on the business landscape 1. Spartan Recycling Group LLC recently opened at 3071 Howard St. in Spartanburg. The plant is located on 10 acres with direct access to the Norfolk Southern Railway and is able to receive and process scrap metal for recycling. The facility will also provide container and transportation services to local industries for their scrap metal. The facility will also be open to the retail public Monday-Friday, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information, visit spartanrg.com or call 864-345-1900.

1

2. Banfield Pet Hospital recently opened at 2449 Laurens Road in Greenville.

The hospital will be open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. Drop-off hours begin at 7 a.m. Monday-Saturday, and 8 a.m. on Sunday.

For more information, visit banfield.com.

3. Camp Bow Wow recently opened their dog training annex at 602 Airport Road in Greenville. For more information, call 864-220-1223 or visit campbowwow.com/greenville.

4. COAST Apparel, a company focused on men’s Southern brand clothing, has opened one of its flagship S.C. stores in Greenville at 3217 Augusta St. Its Pawleys Island store opened over the July 4th weekend. The store is open Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. For more information, visit coastapparel.com or call 864-277-8768.

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3

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JOIN THE 20 COMPANIES SHARING WORK AND EVENT SPACE IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN GREENVILLE www.JOINOPENWORKS.com August 15, 2014

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

27

CONTRIBUTE: New hires, promotions & award winners may be featured in On the Move. Send information and photos to onthemove@upstatebusinessjournal.com.

ON THE MOVE Play-by-play of Upstate careers

HIRED

HIRED

HONORED

HONORED

PROMOTED

Ron Kennedy

Veronica Edwards

Stinson Ferguson

Lynn McQueen

Jason Vaughn

Joined Mashburn Construction’s Greenville office as a project manager. Kennedy brings to Mashburn 14 years of experience in the construction industry as both a consultant and project manager. His most recent experience is in large health care/hospital renovation.

Joined A.T. Locke as a financial analyst. Edwards most recently served as division controller for Jarden Plastic Solutions. She began her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers and has also worked with Newell Rubbermaid and Milwaukee Electric Tool.

Named to Lawyers of Color Inc.’s “Hot List” of 100 minority attorneys under 40 from the Southern region. Ferguson, an associate in Hanysworth Sinkler Boyd’s Greenville office, focuses on construction and utility litigation, commercial dispute litigation, collections management Stay and environmental matters.

Honored as director of the year at Cascades Verdae’s companywide annual meeting.

The award is peer-voted and honors those individuals who are committed to Cascades Verdae’s vision of helping members live longer, healthier, happier McQueen in the lives. know with isUBJ’s director of healthcare marketing.

Named as business development manager for S&ME’s Greenville, Spartanburg and Anderson markets. Vaughn has more than nine years of project management, engineering and construction experience.

THE INBOX

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ON THE MOVE Play-by-play of Upstate careers

CONSTRUCTION/ ENGINEERING: O’Neal Inc. has hired Alberto Plaza as construction manager, and Phil Sechler and Wil Fouché as project managers. Plaza has more than 20 years of construction management experience in the EPC business, primarily working with contractors in Puerto Rico. Sechler has more than 15 years of construction experience, having worked with Kieweit and CH2M Hill. Fouché has field experience with Southern Mechanical Contractors and additional experience as a residential contractor.

EDUCATION: The Board of Directors and Selection Committee for the Greer Middle College recently announced the addition of David Atchley as interim executive director, Jimmy Armstrong as interim principal, and James Dillard as interim assistant principal for the 2014-2015

school year. Atchley is the founder of a consulting business that focuses on knowledge-based businesses and nonprofit organizations. Armstrong has over 22 years experience in various roles and holds South Carolina certificates for superintendent, secondary administration, secondary supervisor and physical education K-12. Dillard is a veteran educator with 19 years in various administrative, teaching and coaching roles.

Greenville County recently welcomed Patricia Whitener as a new 4-H agent with Clemson University Cooperative Education. Whitener is a 2013 graduate of Clemson University with her M.S. in Wildlife Fisheries and Biology.

metto Pulmonary & Critical Care, and Dr. Ben William “Bill” Wilson to Powdersville Primary Care. Carlson is board-eligible with the American Board of Otolaryngology and a member of the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. Payne is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in pulmonary and critical care medicine. She is a member of the American College of Chest Physicians, the American College of Physicians and the American Thoracic Society. Wilson is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medi-

cine, with additional certification in wound care and hyperbaric medicine.

VETERINARY SERVICES: Animal Rehab and Conditioning Center recently announced that Dicki Kennedy has received additional certifications in animal chiropractic and canine massage. Kennedy founded Animal Rehab and Conditioning Center in 2013. She previously served for five years as chief of staff in a corporate veterinary hospital, and four years as the owner of a general practice veterinary clinic.

MEDICAL: Bon Secours Medical Group recently welcomed Dr. Hans T. Carlson to the Carolina Ear, Nose and Throat network, Dr. Julie G. Payne to Pal-

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recognizing our community heroes

September 11, 2014 | Noon | Hyatt Regency Greenville Recognizing & Thanking Our Community Heroes While Remembering 9/11 To sponsor or attend go to www.greenvilleheroes.org or Text-To-Pledge keyword HERO1 to 414-44

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Presented by JHM Hotels

August 15, 2014

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

29

CONTRIBUTE: Got a hot date? Submit event information for consideration to events@upstatebusinessjournal.com.

PLANNER Events you should have on your calendar

MONDAY AUGUST 18

the Healthcare Provider setting

GSHRM COMMITTEE PLANNING MEETING

REGISTER AT: greenvillechamber.org

Greenville Technical College, Buck Mickel Center, 216 S. Pleasantburg Drive, Greenville; 11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m.

CONTACT: Julie Alexander at 864-239-3754

TOPIC: HR Management Conference CONTACT: greenvillehr@gmail.com FOR INFORMATION: greenvillehr.shrm.org SIMPLE STEPS START-UP BASICS INFO BRIEFING NEXT Innovation Center, 411 University Ridge, Greenville; 6-8 p.m.

alfonsointerpreting.com

purchase game tickets

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

FOR INFORMATION: greenvillechamber.org

Petals & Company, 1178 Woodruff Road, Greenville; 5:30-7:30 p.m.

S.C. AEROSPACE INDUSTRY DAY CONFERENCE AND EXPO

RSVP TO: info2@ mauldinchamber.org

Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln St., Columbia; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

SPEAKER: Anita Zucker, president and CEO of the InterTech Group

UNDERSTANDING YOUR FINANCIALS FOR NON-FINANCIAL MANAGERS NEXT Innovation Center, 411 University Ridge, Greenville; 6-8 p.m.

REGISTER AT: saeu. sc.edu/reg/aerospace

COST: $29 per person REGISTER AT: piedmontscore.org

COST: $15 per person, free for Michelin Development clients

HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS NETWORK Greenville Chamber of Commerce, Board Room, 24 Cleveland St., Greenville; 7:30-9 a.m.

Open to Greenville Chamber members in

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 20 BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS

TOPIC: SBA Resource Day COST: Free to attend REGISTER AT: clemson. edu/sbdc CONTACT: Beth Smith at es2@clemson.edu or 864-592-6318

Starbucks, 657 Fairview Road, Simpsonville; 7:30-9 a.m.

COST: Free to attend REGISTER AT: simpsonvillechamber. com CONTACT: Jennifer Richardson at jrichardson@ simpsonvillechamber. com

TECH AFTER FIVE – GREENVILLE Grille 33, 535 Haywood Road, Greenville; 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Free to GSA Technology Council members.

REGISTER AT: techafterfive.com.

CONTACT: Jennifer Richardson at jrichardson@ simpsonvillechamber.com USGBC LUNCH AND LEARN CBI, 205 E. Broad St., Greenville; noon-1:30 p.m.

SPEAKER: Pete Choquette, design and consulting department manager, Epsten Group TOPIC: Introduction to Environmental Life Cycle Assessment COST: $15 for U.S. Green Building Council members, $20 for non-members, $10 for program only REGISTER AT: bit.ly/USGBCSC

THURSDAY AUGUST 21

REGISTER AT: piedmontscore.org

TUESDAY AUGUST 19

CONTACT: Will Jackman at 864-335-0064

151 South Church St., Spartanburg; 9:15 a.m.-noon

HANDSHAKES AND HASHBROWNS

TOASTMASTERS BILINGUE University Center, 225 S. Pleasantburg Drive, Auditorium Room 204, Greenville; noon-1 p.m.

FOR INFORMATION: tmbilingue. toastmastersclubs.org CONTACT: Jeff Alfonso at jeff@

GREENVILLE CHAMBER NIGHT AT FLUOR FIELD WITH THE GREENVILLE DRIVE

Home Helpers, 509 W. Poinsett St., Greer; 8-9 a.m.

Fluor Field, 945 S. Main St., Greenville; 6 p.m.

REGISTER AT: greerchamber.com

COST: Free reception to Greenville Chamber members, must

COST: Free to Greer Chamber members

SBA SMALL BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE Spartanburg Library,

BIZ TALKS Simpsonville Rotary Hall, 126 S. Main St., Simpsonville; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

SPEAKERS: Rance Bryan, Small Business Development Center; and Eddie West, SCORE Cost: $20 per person REGISTER AT: simpsonvillechamber.com

PALMETTO SECURITY GROUP LAUNCH SUMMIT ONE Building, 1 N. Main St., Greenville; 2-7 p.m.

CONTACT: Allison Gaskins at agaskins@thepsg.biz or 864-861-5141

Growth and improvement in every direction.

A land-use program committed to the legacy of carefully considered, responsible, sustainable, and environmentally sensitive growth and development.

Learn more...www.GSP360BeyondtheRunway.com 30

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

August 15, 2014

SNAPSHOT A quick look into Upstate business.

The Greenville Chamber’s Leadership Greenville program has accepted 57 participants for its 41st class. See our story on page 12 for full details.

MARKETING & EVENTS

IN THIS WEEK’S ISSUE OF UBJ? WANT A COPY FOR YOUR LOBBY?

Kate Madden

DIGITAL STRATEGIST PRESIDENT/CEO Mark B. Johnston mjohnston@communityjournals.com

UBJ PUBLISHER

ART & PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR Kristy M. Adair OPERATIONS Holly Hardin

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Michael Allen, Whitney Fincannon

MANAGING EDITOR Jerry Salley jsalley@communityjournals.com

SENIOR BUSINESS WRITER Jennifer Oladipo

STAFF WRITERS

Sherry Jackson, Cindy Landrum, April A. Morris, Joe Toppe

CONTRIBUTING WRITER Jeanne Putnam

PHOTOGRAPHER Greg Beckner MARKETING & ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES Kristi Jennings, Donna Johnston, Annie Langston, Lindsay Oehman, Pam Putman

jackson Marketing Group’s 25 Years

Emily Price

Ryan L. Johnston rjohnston@communityjournals.com Susan Clary Simmons ssimmons@communityjournals.com

UBJ milestone

1988 Jackson Dawson opens in Greenville at Downtown Airport

1988

1997 Jackson Dawson launches motorsports Division 1993

1990 Jackson Dawson acquires therapon marketing Group and moves to Piedmont office Center on Villa.

>>

Chairman larry Jackson, Jackson marketing Group. Photos by Greg Beckner / Staff

Jackson Marketing Group celebrates 25 years By sherry Jackson | staff | sjackson@communityjournals.com

Solve. Serve. Grow. Those three words summarize Jackson Marketing Group’s guiding principles, and according to owner Larry Jackson, form the motivation that has kept the firm thriving for the past 25 years.

Jackson graduated from Bob Jones University with a degree in video and film production and started his 41-year career in the communications industry with the U.S. Army’s Public Information Office. He served during

Vietnam, where he said he was “luckily” stationed in the middle of Texas at Fort Hood.

He left the service and went to work in public affairs and motorsports at Ford Motor Company in Detroit.

After a stint at Bell and Howell, where he was responsible for managing Ford’s dealer marketing and training, the entrepreneurial bug hit and he co-founded Jackson-Dawson Marketing Communications, a company specializing in dealer training and product launches for the auto industry in 1980.

In 1987, Jackson wanted to move back south and thought Greenville would be a good fit. An avid pilot, he

learned of an opportunity to purchase Cornerstone Aviation, a fixed base operation (FBO) that served as a service station for the Greenville Downtown Airport, providing fuel, maintenance and storage.

In fact, when he started the Greenville office of what is now Jackson Marketing Group (JMG) in 1988, the offices were housed on the second floor in an airport hangar.

“Clients would get distracted by the airplanes in the hangars and we’d have to corral them to get back upstairs to the meeting,” Jackson said.

Jackson sold the FBO in 1993, but says it was a great way to get to know Greenville’s fathers and leaders

>>

with a majority of them utilizing the general aviation airport as a “corporate gateway to the city.”

In 1997, Jackson and his son, Darrell, launched Jackson Motorsports Group. The new division was designed to sell race tires and go to racetracks to sell and mount the tires. Darrell Jackson now serves as president of the motorsports group and Larry Jackson has two other children and a son-in-law who work there. Jackson said all his children started at the bottom and “earned their way up.”

Jackson kept the Jackson-Dawson branches in Detroit and others in Los Angeles and New York until he sold his portion of that partnership in 2009 as part of his estate planning.

The company now operates a small office in Charlotte, but its main headquarters are in Greenville in a large office space off Woodruff Road, complete with a vision gallery that displays local artwork and an auditorium Jackson makes available for non-profit use. The Motorsports Group is housed in an additional 26,000 square feet building just down the street, and the agency is currently looking for another 20,000 square feet.

Jackson said JMG has expanded into other verticals such as financial, healthcare, manufacturing and pro-bono work, but still has a strong focus on the auto industry and transportation. It’s

2003 motorsports Division acquires an additional 26,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space

1998 1998 Jackson Dawson moves to task industrial Court

also one of the few marketing companies in South Carolina to handle all aspects of a project in-house, with four suites handling video production, copywriting, media and research and web design.

Clients include heavyweights such as BMW, Bob Jones University, the Peace Center, Michelin and Sage Automotive. Recent projects have included an interactive mobile application for Milliken’s arboretum and 600-acre Spartanburg campus and a marketing campaign for the 2013 Big League World Series.

“In my opinion, our greatest single achievement is the longevity of our client relationships,” said Darrell Jackson. “Our first client from back in 1988 is still a client today. I can count on one hand the number of clients who have gone elsewhere in the past decade.”

Larry Jackson says his Christian faith and belief in service to others, coupled with business values rooted in solving clients’ problems, have kept

2009 Jackson Dawson changes name to Jackson marketing Group when larry sells his partnership in Detroit and lA 2003

2009-2012 Jackson marketing Group named a top BtoB agency by BtoB magazine 4 years running

him going and growing his business over the years. He is passionate about giving back and outreach to non-prof non-profits. The company was recently awarded the Community Foundation Spirit Award.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to serving the community last week by celebrating its 25th anniversary with a birthday party and a 25-hour Serve-A-Thon partnership with Hands on Greenville and Habitat for Humanity. JMG’s 103 full-time employees worked in shifts around the clock on October 22 and 23 to help construct a house for a deserving family.

As Jackson inches towards retirement, he says he hasn’t quite figured out his succession plan yet, but sees the companies staying under the same umbrella. He wants to continue to strategically grow the business.

“From the beginning, my father has taught me that this business is all about our people – both our clients and our associates,” said his son, Darrell. “We have created a focus and a culture that strives to solve problems, serve people and grow careers.”

Darrell Jackson said he wants to “continue helping lead a culture where we solve, serve and grow. If we are successful, we will continue to grow towards our ultimate goal of becoming the leading integrated marketing communications brand in the Southeast.”

2011 Jackson marketing Group/Jackson motorsports Group employee base reaches 100 people

Is the outsourcing scare over?

Can social media change how we enjoy downtown? What exactly is data mining, and should we be scared? Is 3-D imaging the wave of the future?

2008 2012 Jackson marketing Group recognized by Community Foundation with Creative spirit Award

pro-bono/non-proFit / Clients lients American Red Cross of Western Carolinas Metropolitan Arts Council Artisphere Big League World Series The Wilds Advance SC South Carolina Charities, Inc. Aloft Hidden Treasure Christian School

CoMMUnitY nit inVolVeMent nitY in olV inV olVe VeMent & boarD positions lArry JACkson (ChAirmAn): Bob Jones University Board chairman, The Wilds Christian Camp and Conference Center board member, Gospel Fellowship Association board member, Past Greenville Area Development Corporation board member, Past Chamber of Commerce Headquarters Recruiting Committee member, Past Greenville Tech Foundation board member David Jones (Vice President Client services, Chief marketing officer): Hands on Greenville board chairman mike Zeller (Vice President, Brand marketing): Artisphere Board, Metropolitan Arts Council Board, American Red Cross Board, Greenville Tech Foundation Board, South Carolina Chamber Board eric Jackson (Jackson motorsports Group sales specialist): Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club Advisory Board

November 1, 2013 Upstate bUsiness joUrnal 21

20 Upstate bUsiness joUrnal November 1, 2013

AS SEEN IN

NOVEMBER 1, 2013

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September: Focus on Technology

1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

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October: Focus on Leadership Who’s building leaders in the community? What are questions leaders should never ask? What can we learn from the military, football coaches and university presidents?

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Copyright @2014 BY COMMUNITY JOURNALS LLC. All rights reserved. Upstate Business Journal is published weekly by Community Journals LLC. P.O. Box 2266, Greenville, South Carolina, 29602.

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August 15, 2014

UPSTATE BUSINESS JOURNAL

31

P SA ET VI ITI N VE GS RA BUS TE IN S* ES S

CO M

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